So, you’ve decided to up your mobile content creation game by investing in one of the best tripods for mobile photography. With so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best? Tripods come in a variety of sizes and have a wide range of features so it can be a bit confusing to find the right one. Some don’t even come with universal smartphones mounts which will need to be purchased separately – what gives?!
Don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you and found the three best tripods for mobile photography in 2021. Whether you’re a mobile journalist or a social media influencer, one of these tripods will be ideal for ensuring you get the perfect shot every time.
From tiny and flexible to tall and portable, these tripods are built to suit any smartphone photographer. We’ve chosen tripods to suit a range of budgets as well, so no matter how much you’re looking to spend, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!
Tripods for Mobile Photographers – Is There Such a Thing?
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SwitchPod Tripod
This versatile tripod is actually capable of switching between a tripod and a single-handed grip in mere seconds. This a great option for minimalist vloggers and creators because you won’t need to haul around extra gear when you have one that can do it all.
The legs can expand from a grip to a tripod with a simple flick of your wrist. One quick swipe brings them back, where they are held together with magnets.
The SwitchPod is made of durable but lightweight aluminum alloy and weights just over 11 ounces. Though it doesn’t weigh much, this powerful tripod is capable of supporting up to 100 lbs, so no matter what type of smartphone you use, you can be sure your tripod can handle it.
When in use as a grip, the handle measures about 11 inches long. When set up in tripod mode, the Switchpod measures just under 10 inches tall and wide. The distinctive shape of the tripod legs allows you to hold it comfortably while filming.
The legs of the Switchpod have comfortable finger grooves along the inner edges to ensure that you never use your grip. Additionally, the feet of each leg have rubber grips to prevent your tripod from slipping and sliding out of place while filming.
This uniquely functional tripod features two ¼-20 threads for accessories. The top of the tripod also has a piece of circular padding to protect your equipment.
It should be noted that this tripod does not come with a phone clip, though it’s easy to attach a high-quality option because we did a whole post about mobile mounts!
Priced at just $99, the Switchpod Tripod is perfect for any creator that needs a portable multifunction tool. Sure, you can find tripods for less, but can they go from grip to tripod while supporting up to 100 pounds?
MeFoto BackPacker Tripod
Another multifunctional tripod, the MeFoto BackPacker can be used either as a tripod or as a monopod. It features a unique reverse folding design, allowing it to be stored compactly in any gear bag.
The ever-adaptable BackPacker is made from durable carbon fiber, so it can handle any photo or video shoot. It weighs in at just 2.2 lbs, so it won’t weigh you down either. When you’re ready to pack up, it can be folded down to just 13.19 inches in length.
Each of the legs feature rubber feet to keep your tripod in place and ensure your photos and video are clear and crisp with zero camera shake. Additionally, the dual-action ball head features a unique Arca-Swiss style quick release plate and separate controls for pan and ball lock.
The quick release place features a ¼-20 mounting thread where you can attach a smartphone adapter, which will be required in order to work with smartphones. However, the recommended adapter is suitable for use with any phone and case between 56 and 91 mm in width. It can also be used by itself to hold your phone for a quick video chat or conference call!
The Backpacker also gives you the flexibility of having a range of working heights. If you need a tabletop tripod, the Backpacker can shrink down to a tiny 13.2 inches. If you’re looking for a taller tripod for shoots in the studio or outdoors, it can be expanded to 54.7 inches in height.
Each of the Backpacker’s sturdy legs locks in place with the help of a twist lock. The tripod can hold up to 13.2 pounds, so no matter what phone you have or what accessories you use, the Backpacker can handle them.
At $159.95, the Backpacker is a bit more expensive than some of the tripods on the market, but it is one of the highest quality available.
Joby GorillaPod 3K Tripod
One of the best tripods on the market in 2020 is the Joby Gorillapod 3K. This compact yet sturdy tripod is ideal for supporting your smartphone in places other tripods wouldn’t work. The unique flexible legs will not only support your phone as a typical tripod would, but you can also wrap them around objects such as tree branches or street signs to get that perfect angle.
The ball head attachment supports 360 degree panning and features a cutout for a full 90-degree tilt. This gives you the flexibility to set up the GorillaPod wherever and however you like. It even has a built-in level to make sure every shot is perfect.
The 3K is designed for use with either a DSLR or smartphone, so you will need to buy an additional phone clip to help support your mobile device.
However, no matter what type of smartphone you have or what clip you purchase, you can be sure that the 3K will be able to support it. It can hold devices that weigh up to 6.6 pounds, so don’t be afraid to attach your favorite accessories as well.
The Joby GorillaPod 3K is priced on sale at $64.95, so if you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive, sturdy, and flexible tripod, this is exactly what you’re looking for.
Which Tripods For Mobile Photography Are Best For You Then?
So, you’ve seen the best tripods for mobile photography – now which one will you choose? The MeFoto Backpacker offers traditional tripod benefits without breaking the bank while the Joby Gorillapod provides the perfect combination of stability and usability at two thirds the cost of the Switchpod.
If you weren’t inspired by the selection of this list, then give our 9 Best Smartphone Tripods for TikTok, Instagram, and Youtube a read because it has more variety in terms of price point and product specs. Comment whether you’d like to see a list like this dedicated to mobile mounting solutions similar to IMStick from the Stick Company and Mobile by Peak Design.
